A core to explore…
Whisky aficionados will know That Boutique-y Whisky Company as a source of rare, interesting limited-edition and single-cask bottles. But now the cult independent bottler has released its Core Range – a permanent collection of five signature bottles that represent key whisky styles. Crafted in small batches, the new range includes a smoky Islay 8 Year Old Single Malt (£41.95/70cl, Alc 45.8%), a smooth Blended Grain 30 Year Old Scotch (£74.95/70cl, Alc 45.8%) and a characterful 8 Year Old Canadian Corn Whisky (£36.95/70cl, Alc 45.8%). But my highlight was the richly complex Highlands 18 Year Old Single Malt (£84.95/70cl, Alc 45.8%), aged in a combination of ex-bourbon, oloroso and PX Sherry casks, offering an elegant interplay of subtle smokiness and sweet caramel.
Scotch fans should also make space in their drinks cupboard for the Speyside 12 Year Old Single Malt (£44.95/70cl, Alc 45.8%), a deeply satisfying dram matured in oloroso casks. The collection is also available as a tasting set in 50ml size. Available at Amazon, House of Malt, Inverurie Whisky Shop, Master of Malt, Milroy’s of Soho, Royal Mile Whisky, Soho Whisky Club, The Sourcing Table, The Whisky Exchange, The Whisky Shop and The Whisky World.
What is… a batida?
A sweet, frothy style of summery drink, the batida hails from Brazil, where it’s most commonly made with cachaça (though any spirit can be used). The spirit is blended with sugar and lime or any other fresh tropical fruits in countless variations, sometimes with coconut
